Shopworkers' union Usdaw said it was becoming “increasing concerned” that a buyer for the remaining BHS branches may not be found and called on Sir Philip Green to offer laid-off workers positions in his other retail chains.

With 20 of the 50 stores set to close tomorrow, more than 1,200 staff in total face the prospect of being made redundant by the end of July, thought reports suggested some of the staff my be retained in other areas of the business.